Video Capsule Endoscopy

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is designed to capture and transmit images of the lining of the small bowel wirelessly. The capsule is increasing used in paediatric population in recent years. The capsule can either be swallowed in older children or introduced via a gastroscope in younger children. It is 24.5mm long and 10.8mm wide. It captures 3 pictures per second.

It is intended for assessing and visualisation of the small bowel mucosa as an adjunctive tool in the detection of abnormalities of the small bowel.

The indications for Video Capsule Endoscopy (VCE) are:

  • Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (angioectasia, meckel’s diverticulum, NSAIDs)
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Polyps (Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome, Familial adenomatous polyposis)
  • Intestinal lymphangiectasia

Video Capsule Endoscopy is generally safe. However, there is a tiny risk (<1%) of capsule retention. This means the capsule stays in the bowel and does not pass spontaneously. In some cases, bowel surgery is needed to remove the capsule.

Paediatric Gut Investigation Clinic are pleased to provide the investigation to children at our clinics in Horley and Reigate, Surrey, and you can book your appointment here.

Our clinics in Horley and Dorking, Surrey, and Wimbledon, London are perfectly located to see patients from all nearby areas including Reigate, Chichester, Banstead, Dorking, Epsom, Guildford, Redhill, Southampton, Portsmouth, Royal Tunbridge Wells, and Epsom, Croydon, Leatherhead, Kingston-upon-Thames, Tonbridge, Maidstone, Kensington, Hammersmith, Twickenham, Camden Town, Wandsworth, and all nearby areas.